Hello Summer! We’ve made it back to one of the hottest and brightest seasons of the year– a perfect time for outdoor fun, family travel, and chasing “good vibes”. But as we soak up the sun, it’s important to stay mindful of common illnesses and diseases that tend to spike during this season. Warmer temperatures encourage more outdoor activity, which can increase the risk of certain health issues like heat-related illnesses, dehydration, or dangerous diseases from local insects. While this is the season to relax, let loose, and enjoy life, don’t let those good vibes be ruined by not recognizing, preventing, or properly responding to this common summertime threat. If an emergency does happen, you can count on Surepoint Emergency Center to be there so your summer stays fun!

People of all ages tend to get more active outdoors as the weather gets warmer. This generally makes them susceptible to certain illnesses and health risks that commonly occur during the summertime. It’s important to understand and recognize these conditions, their symptoms, and potential prevention methods. Below is a list of common summertime illnesses, how to prevent them, and how Surepoint Emergency Center can help if things take a serious turn:

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke:

  • Causes: prolonged exposure to the heat and the onset of dehydration.
  • Symptoms: Nausea, dizziness, confusion, rapid heart rate (BPM).
  • Prevention: Stay hydrated and avoid consistent sunlight, preferably during midday, and avoid sweating for long periods.

Emergency Response: Surepoint can provide IV fluids, cooling treatment, and vital monitoring.

Dehydration:

  • Causes: insufficient fluid intake, excessive exposure to intense heat, and fluid loss through sweating.
  • Symptoms: Dry mouth, fatigue, lightheadedness.
    • Prevention: Drink water regularly, be aware of heat waves, limit caffeine, sugar, and alcohol.

Emergency Response: Surepoint offers rapid fluid replacement and electrolyte management.

Food Poisoning:

  • Cause: Uncooked or improperly stored food.
  • Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and intense fever.
  • Prevention: Proper food handling and storage.

Emergency Response: Surepoint treats foodborne infections and associated symptoms.

Insect-Borne Illnesses (West Nile Virus, Zika, Lyme Disease):

  • Causes: Mosquito and tick bites.
  • Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, skin rash, and chills.
  • Prevention: Insect repellent, long sleeves, and avoiding areas with high insect populations.

Emergency Response: Surepoint provides diagnostic testing and supportive care for viral or bacterial infections.

Sunburn and Heat Rash:

  • Causes: Overexposure to intense UV lights and trapped sweat.
  • Symptoms: Blistering, itching, and redness of the skin.
  • Prevention: Sunscreen and protective clothing when necessary. 

Emergency Response: Surepoint would administer fluids for dehydration, medication for pain and inflammation, and antibiotics to prevent or treat infection.

Summer should be fun and filled with memorable experiences, but stay smart and safe. While some of these summer-related health issues can be treated at home, it’s important to know how to recognize when an emergency arises. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of a summer-related illness, don’t wait. Come see us at Surepoint Emergency Center–we’re always here for you!

 

Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.

Expert convenient care in your neighborhood.

      References

      Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital. (2023, June 27). The most common summer illnesses and in

      juries. https://www.fmdh.org/recent-news/2023/june/the-most-common-summer-illnesses-and-injuries/

      Hallas, D., PhD, PPCNP-BC, CPNP, PMHS, FAANP, FAAN. (2023). Keeping patients safe from summertime illnesses. Contemporary PEDS Journal, 40(5). https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/keeping-patients-safe-from-summertime-illnesses

      Krieger, R., MD. (2022, June 20). Common Summertime infectious diseases | ID Care Infectious disease doctors. ID Care. https://idcare.com/diseases/anaplasmosis/common-summertime-infectious-diseases/